Shopping at department stores

Korean department stores are organized by floor, and a common layout puts luxury goods and cosmetics on the ground floor, with womenswear, menswear, kids' clothing and sportswear above. Many have a food hall and food court in the basement, while restaurant floors vary by branch. Layouts differ, so check the floor directories at entrances and elevators.

Some department stores offer foreign visitors membership programs, discount cards or coupons, which can often be issued with a passport. The benefits and who qualifies vary by store, branch and program, and they can change. Ask at the foreigner information desk or check the store's official website for current offers.

At participating department stores, you can claim a refund with your receipts and passport after shopping. Some branches have a tax refund desk or self-service kiosk, but locations and procedures vary. Depending on the conditions, the refund may be deducted on the spot or claimed at the airport, so check the store's guidance and official refund information.

Many close about one day a month, usually on a weekday, but whether and when they close differs by store. Many also close around Lunar New Year and Chuseok, though the dates and number of days vary by branch. Check the official website before you go, especially if your trip is short.

Department stores generally open mid-morning and close in the evening, sometimes extending hours on weekends or during sales. Hours may also differ between branches and even between floors such as restaurants. Check the store's official website for exact opening times.

Basement food halls sell side dishes, desserts, fruit, ready meals and gift foods, making them a convenient place to eat or snack during a shopping trip. Some counters offer free tastings. They are also popular with travelers who want takeout to enjoy back at their hotel.

Some department stores are known to offer delivery to hotels or the airport, or to connect you with an outside delivery service. Conditions and fees differ by store. Ask at the information desk whether it is available before you buy bulky items.

Korean department stores hold regular sales several times a year, often around the change of seasons. Even during a sale, some brands may not participate. Check the store's official announcements for exact dates and which brands are included. Popular items can sell out early in a sale.

Department stores often run promotions that give gift vouchers or free gifts when you spend over a certain amount. Dates, conditions and whether foreign visitors can join differ by event. Usually you take your receipts to a gift desk, so check the event notice for details.

Department stores accept most international credit cards, and a growing number also accept some foreign mobile payment apps. Accepted methods can vary by counter and brand, so check before paying. Your card issuer may add foreign transaction fees. Paying in won is often cheaper than paying in your home currency.

Usually yes, within a set period, if you have the receipt and the item is unworn with tags attached. Time limits and conditions vary by brand and store, and sale items may differ. Returns on tax-refunded items can be complicated, so ask before you buy.

Some department stores have an alterations room, and some brands will hem items bought at their counter. Availability and cost vary by store and brand, and it may be free or charged. It can take a few days, so if your trip is short, ask how long it will take and when you can pick it up.

Yes. Many department stores provide clean restrooms, lounges, nursing rooms and stroller rental. Floor directories and information desks will point you to them. They are a comfortable place to take a break during a long day of shopping. Many floors also have seating areas.

Branches popular with tourists often have a dedicated foreigner information desk where staff speak English, Chinese, Japanese and other languages. Floor directories frequently include foreign languages too. The range of interpretation help differs by branch, so ask at the desk.

Department stores mainly sell current-season goods at full price, while outlets sell past-season items and surplus stock at a discount. Department stores are usually downtown, while large outlets are often on the city outskirts. Go to a department store for the newest pieces, an outlet for bargains.

Some department stores have young fashion or casual floors, and some run dedicated spaces for Korean designer brands or K-fashion. The mix varies by branch, and short-term pop-up stores are also common. Floor directories or the store's app will show what is currently there.

Popular luxury boutiques can have entry waits even inside department stores, and lines sometimes form before opening. Each boutique manages it differently, with waiting lists or number notifications. Just follow the staff's instructions and wait your turn. Lists for popular boutiques can fill quickly right after opening.

Many department stores offer free parking for a set time depending on how much you spend. The rules and time limits vary by store and branch, and car parks can be very crowded on weekends. Keep your receipts to show when you pay for parking.

Downtown duty-free shops let departing travelers buy tax-free by showing their passport and flight details, and purchases are usually collected at the airport's pickup counter. Some Korean-made goods bought by foreigners can be taken on the spot. Department stores are regular retail, so you take items right away and may claim a tax refund. Check official guidance.

Many department store counters offer gift wrapping, sometimes free and sometimes for a fee, and some stores have a dedicated wrapping desk. Mention that it is a gift when you pay, and staff will usually prepare suitable wrapping and a shopping bag.